Al Boenker Insurance Blog

Jul 21, 2016

All of our furry canine companions have different reactions when it comes to riding in a motor vehicle. Some like to hang their hang head out of the window to feel the breeze, some take a nap in the back seat and others tend to absolutely shudder in fear. Most likely, your dog is going to have to take a car ride at some point and their behavior throughout the journey will dictate how you approach their safety. Unfortunately, most people don't realize just how vulnerable unprotected pets are in a moving vehicle, which is why we're bringing you some helpful canine car safety tips!

Use a Crate - Having your dog unrestrained in the car is like having a small child riding without a car seat. A collision with your dog relaxing in the front seat poses an immense risk for their safety. Although most dogs hate being confined in a crate, this really is the number one option to ensure their protection. You may have to endure some crying and barking, but in the end, you'll be comforted knowing that they're secure.

Prepare the Animal for the Ride - Depending on the length of your journey, make sure that your pet is well fed, hydrated and uses the restroom at least 30 minutes before the ride begins. Also, if your dog is not used to car rides, it would be wise to go on some short test drives in an empty parking lot before the actual car trip so they can get a feel of the motions of a moving vehicle.

Never Leave an Animal in a Parked Car - As stated above, leaving your dog unsupervised in the car is like leaving a small child in the car. They become helpless, scared and are in danger of falling victim to extreme temperatures. Tie your pet up outside or drop them off at home before running your errands.

Avoid Windows - It's a safe bet that the majority of dogs prefer riding shotgun or in the drivers lap, hanging their heads out of the window during a car ride. However, this poses a major safety concern due to airbags deploying and the risk of being injured by flying objects. Plus, it's a distraction for the driver due to the fact you'll be watching them instead of the road.

Long Road Trips Require Planning - If you and your dog are heading out of town, make sure that you put together a traveling kit for the journey. This should include: food, water, waste scoop, plastic bags, a first aid kit and their favorite toy!

We value the safety of our customers and especially their four legged friends! Before you head out with your dog, take the time to make sure that you're covered. Give us a call at 1-800-Thanks-Al to make sure that your auto insurance policy is up to date and you've got the best rate and coverage possible!